Summer Safety and Health Tips!

Keep your kids safe and healthy this summer season by learning about sun safety, fireworks, water safety, and avoiding insect bites.

• Sunscreen

Most parents know that it is important to use sunscreen, but kids still end up very tanned or getting sunburned at least once or twice a year.
Why?
It usually isn't because parents are forgetting to use sunscreen, but instead, they often aren't using it correctly. This how to on using sunscreen can help you avoid sunburn and that "healthy tan," which, of course, isn't very healthy at all.
Here's How:

1. Get ready to apply sunscreen on your child about 30 minutes before your child is going to be outside. If you wait until your child is already outside, then you will leave your child unprotected, as it takes time for sunscreen to work. If you apply sunscreen before your child goes outside, you can also do it before he gets dressed, being sure to get all areas of his body that might be exposed to the sun.
2. Be prepared to apply a generous layer of sunscreen all over your child's body. In general, parents often don't apply enough sunscreen on their children.
3. Start with one body part, such as an arm, and apply a thick layer of sunscreen all over, rubbing it in thoroughly (or spraying it on) before moving on to another area.
4. Go from area to area, being sure to include the back of your child's neck, his shoulders, ears, feet and the back of his arms and legs. It is usually a good idea to apply sunscreen on your child's face last, since kids often don't like that part. Use the same system each time you put sunscreen on your child, that way you will be unlikely to make a mistake and miss an area of your child's body.
5. Re-apply sunscreen at least every two hours, especially if your child is swimming or sweating.

Tips:

1. Choose a sunscreen that provides broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection, is water resistant, hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
2. Don't forget to apply sunscreen every day that your child is going outside, even when it is cloudy, since you can get a sunburn even when it isn't very sunny.
3. As a general rule, a handful of sunscreen should be the right amount to cover your child's body -- larger kids have larger hands, so that helps you adjust the amount for different-size kids.
4. Choose a form of sunscreen that you and your child are most likely to use, whether that means it is a gel, lotion, spray, continuous spray, etc.
5. Even when using sunscreen or sunblock, try to avoid or limit sun exposure when the sun is at its strongest, from about 10 a.m. to 4p.m.

What You Need:

A broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 to 30.

• Water Safety Tips

  Many families try to escape the summer heat in a pool or nearby lake. To keep your kids safe around the water be sure to:
  • childproof your pool by enclosing it in a fence with a self-closing and self-latching gate.
  • supervise your kids around the pool, even if they know how to swim.
  • have children who don't know how to swim wear a life vest instead of "floaties" when they are in the pool.
  • always have your child wear a life vest when on a lake or river, even if they know how to swim.
  • take your child to swimming lessons once he or she is four to five years old, the age when most kids can learn to swim.

• Fireworks Safety

Fireworks are a summer tradition for many families. Unfortunately, injuries from fireworks are another tradition that often seems to follow when kids are allowed to play with fireworks.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that:

• most injuries from fireworks occur in the few weeks around July 4th
• almost half of the injuries were to children under age 15
• firecrackers caused the most injuries, followed by rockets and sparklers
• burns are the most common injuries from fireworks

Are Sparklers Safe?

Parents who understand that firecrackers, bottle rockets, and roman candles, etc. can cause injuries, often let their younger kids play with sparklers because they think they are safe.
Sparklers, which can reach about 2000°F, cause half of the injuries to children under age five though, and 10 percent of fireworks-related injuries overall.
So even sparklers should be avoided.

Fireworks Safety Tips

Although the CPSC offers some fireworks safety tips to 'help consumers use fireworks more safely,' such as providing adult supervision, keeping a bucket of water nearby, and observing local laws, etc., the American Academy of Pediatrics offers much better advice, that:

children and their families should be counseled to attend public fireworks displays rather than purchase fireworks for home use.

So this year, skip buying fireworks that you would plan to use at home, and the biggest risk for injuries from fireworks, and instead, take your family to see a public fireworks show.

• Avoiding Mosquito Bites

Mosquitoes are known to pass blood-borne illnesses from one victim to another. They are a major health hazard and are responsible for the transmission of yellow fever, malaria, dengue fever, encephalitis, and many other serious diseases. In parts of the world where mosquito-transmitted diseases are not common, it is the bite itself that presents the greatest difficulty. More infants and children are bitten by mosquitoes than by any other insect.

Here are some tips for avoiding mosquitoes:

1. Mosquitoes are attracted to things that remind them of nectar or mammal flesh. When outdoors, wear light clothing that covers most of the body, keeping as much skin and hair covered as practical. Avoid bright, floral colors. Khaki, beige, and olive have no particular attraction for mosquitoes.
2. They are also attracted by some body odors, and for this reason they choose some individuals over others in a crowd. Avoid fragrances in soaps, shampoos, and lotions.
3. Many species of mosquito prefer biting from dusk until dawn. The problem is worse when the weather is hot or humid. Avoid playing outdoors during the peak biting times in your area.
4. Try to stay away from still water.
5. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using an insect repellent on exposed areas of skin. The most effective compounds are DEET (N,N-diethyl meta-toluamide), picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus (Repel) I prefer the safe, non-toxic, plant-based oil of lemon eucalyptus. It does cause irritation if it gets in the eyes, but has otherwise proven safe. It has not been tested, though, on children under age 3. DEET-containing products should not be used on children under 2 months of age.
6. Don't apply insect repellent under clothes, or too much may be absorbed. Also, avoid applying repellent to portions of the hands that are likely to come in contact with the eyes and mouth.

• Avoiding Foodborne Poisoning in the Summer

Summer is prime time for weddings, picnics, graduation parties, and family cookouts. And feeding the large groups involved can make food safety especially challenging.

Typical signs of foodborne illness include nausea, vomiting, cramps, and diarrhea. In serious cases, high fever, bloody stool, and prolonged vomiting may occur. Young children, pregnant women, older people, and those with compromised immune systems are hit hardest.
Bacteria, whether in food or in the air, grow faster in warmer weather. Don't just worry about the potato salad or egg dishes. "You have to be careful with any food, including melons and lettuce,"

What You Can Do

• It seems so basic, but not everyone does it. Wash hands well and often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom and before cooking or eating.
• Also wash surfaces when cooking, keep raw food separate from cooked food, marinate food in the refrigerator, cook food thoroughly, and refrigerate or freeze food promptly.
• The FDA suggests never leaving food out for more than one hour when the temperature is above 90 F. Any other time, don't leave food out for more than two hours. "Keep hot food hot and cold food cold,".
• "Wash off fruits and vegetables with cool running water." Also, scrub fruits with rough surfaces like cantaloupe with a soft brush.
• When you are packing food for a picnic, place cold food in a cooler with plenty of ice or commercial freezing gels. Cold food should be held at or below 40 F and the cooler should be stored in shade. Hot food should be wrapped well, placed in an insulated container, and kept at or above 140 F.
• Those hit by a foodborne illness must stay hydrated so they could try chewing on ice chips or sipping clear fluid after vomiting has stopped. In the next day or so, eat only light foods such as bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, crackers, and soup.
• Seek emergency treatment if severe pain accompanies the illness, if vomiting doesn't stop in a couple of hours, or if bloody diarrhea is experienced.

Have a nice day! ^_^

How To Eat Carbs Without Gaining Weight?

Exciting title, isn't it?!
As with any diet, it's probable for the newly svelte to erase their losses-and even add gains-once they return to an unrestricted menu.
If you're a low-carb dieter who can no longer live without bagels or cookies. It's possible to reintroduce carbs into your diet, though you'll get the best results by phasing in the right carbs in the right way, and by recognizing that other factors besides carb avoidance help you drop excess pounds.

But be prepared: Even if you follow guidelines, transitioning from low- to moderate-carb eating will carry at least a small price. "You will gain some weight,"
That's partly because carbs hold water in the body. "A lot of the initial weight loss on the very low-carb diet is water weight, If you start adding carbs back in, you are going to also start storing water--which is a good thing" Beyond that, you can maintain your weight loss with an educated approach.
know your starting point

Start by reassessing your diet:

• "The first thing to ask is: What are you actually eating?".

You may be surprised. About 10 million Americans are following low-carb diets, but most of them are eating more carbs than they think. A survey of 11,000 people by NPD Group, a New York market research firm, found that only one out of every four low-carb dieters is "actually significantly cutting carbs."

• While regimens vary, many plans instruct dieters to begin with 20 grams of carbs daily in the induction phase, and then increase gradually. Less than 60 grams a day is "pretty standard" during the weight-loss phase (To put that in perspective: A typical 1-ounce slice of bread has about 15 grams of carbs.) So do a quick tally of your typical daily carbs to gauge your starting point.
• pick the healthiest carbs:  Of course, all carbohydrates are not created equal. Stay away from processed carbs. Eat less white bread, white rice and white pasta. That's a good start right there. And avoid french fries, candy, baked goods and snack foods.
• Reclaiming those processed carbs is what gets us in trouble. "White rice, white flour and white potatoes are metabolized like sugar," says John La Puma, M.D., medical director of the Santa Barbara Institute for Medical Nutrition and Healthy Weight. Because they create such an exaggerated insulin response, are so easy to overeat and have less staying power, such carbs often lead to weight gain.
• "Look for carbs that give you the biggest nutrition boost for your buck," says Susan Learner Barr, R.D., general manager of program development for Weight Watchers in North America.

Where to begin?

• With high-fiber options like whole-grain oatmeal. Not instant, but good old-fashioned cooking oats. The fiber content promotes gastrointestinal health and lowers blood cholesterol; it also provides a feeling of fullness so you don't eat as much.
• And yes, you can have fruit again! "A half-cup of fruit has 15 grams of carbs". Choose whole fruits because they are lower in calories and higher in fiber. Beans and legumes will fill you without fattening you, and if you upped your vegetable intake during your low-carb stint, keep it up. Also, add low-fat dairy products; they strengthen bones and may help facilitate weight loss.
• Last but not least, pace yourself, Reincorporating these foods slowly will help you avoid weight gain. If it's been a while since you've eaten carbs, savor their tastes and textures. "Take a bite of a crisp apple. Enjoy a baked sweet potato. Experience what real, wholesome foods taste like" And find healthier versions of your favorites, such as whole-grain, sugar-free cereal.

 Calories still count:

• Restricting carbs tends to lower daily calorie counts, so as you phase in healthy carbs, keep an eye on your calories. "Over l07 studies have been reviewed, and weight loss still comes back to calories,". A report published during 2003 in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that weight loss was principally associated with decreased calories, not decreased carbs.
• An easy, effective way to manage calories is to watch your portion sizes. For example, a bagel from the corner coffee shop can be three to four times the size of the standard portion size. "That's where we get into trouble with carbs".
• Beyond bread: To maintain your weight loss, pay as much attention to your eating habits as to your carb tally. What foods do you keep in your kitchen, your desk, your car, or wherever else you eat? Do you eat standing and in a hurry, or do you sit down and take your time? All these routines should be evaluated.
• One of the advantages of the low-carb diet movement is the heightened awareness it's given people about portion sizes and eating habits and even about the good things that carbs do, such as stimulating the production of serotonin, the mood-elevating brain chemical.
• Try to reached a happy compromise with carbohydrates. Pick what you love, but put limit to yourself, "You can't eat pasta, garlic bread and cheesecake all together."

Why do you really need carbs?

Carbohydrates from foods serve as your body's main source of energy, keeping you energetic through a workout, Carbs also help raise levels of serotonin, a chemical produced in the brain that boosts mood and decreases appetite. Glucose from carbs also helps fuel the brain.

Here's a plan, developed by Katherine Tallmadge, R.D., of the American Dietetic Association, to reintroduce carbs into your diet while keeping total calories under control.

First week: Add 1 cup of milk or soy milk to 1 cup of high-fiber, whole-grain cereal. (Total: 27 grams)
Second week: Add a midmorning and midafternoon fruit snack. (Total: 30 grams)
Third week: Add two slices of wholegrain bread. (Total: 30 grams)
Fourth week: Add a container of yogurt for an afternoon snack and 1 cup of milk or calcium-fortified soy milk for an evening snack. (Total: 24 to 32 grams)
guide to grains

Notes:

1. Whole-grain carbohydrates are ideal for the weight-conscious because they're more filling than refined grains. "You're eating the grain intact, before it's processed,". Among the ingredients to look for on a food's nutrition-fact panel are whole wheat, whole barley, whole oats, cracked wheat, graham flour and whole cornmeal.
2. Multigrain products include two or three grains, such as wheat with barley or rye with millet. The finished product may or may not be entirely whole grain.
3. Refined grains have been processed to remove the bran and germ. "Try to limit those, Or go half-and-half, such as mixing brown or wild rice with white rice."
4. Low-carb breads don't always provide as much nutrition as whole-grain breads, "Wheat flour that's used in regular wholegrain bread is more likely to be enriched with vitamins, folic acid and iron. Soy flour [used for some low-carb breads] may not provide that enrichment."

Eat right, live better, live longer! :)

How to Take Care of Newly Pierced Ears?

Ear piercing has been a part of aesthetic culture practiced by the women since time immemorial. Although an ear pain has got to occur during the piercing of ears it is the ear piercing infection that prolongs tenderness and burning sensation spewing pus from the ear-lobes or ear cartilage. The women believing blindly in supernatural forces go for ear piercing without caring of ear piercing pain or infection. Ear piercing is a cultural tradition to have been practiced for the past several hundred years stimulating the women to go for ear piercing and wear thereby ear rings.

 

There are many countries where the ear piercing still is practiced enthusiastically by the women thereof. As the ear-lobe is pierced through a needle, it makes the way for ear ring to be put on by the women. Ear piercing and nose piecing is a common among the ladies all over the world. As the nose piercings and ear piercing allow the women to wear variety of gold studs and ear rings till the last of their breath, there is multitude of jewelries that can be worn by the enthusiastic women without undergoing ear piercing.

Going deep into a historical background of ear piercing and nose piercing we come across a fact that women in the antecedent periods used to undergo ear piercing and the nose piecing for longevity of their husband and prosperity in life. Believing blindly in the extraordinary effect of nose and ear piercings the women earlier in the days did not bother of ear piercing pain and infection. But the modern ladies do fear of piercing infection and prefer rather clamp-like ear rings that hold theirs earlobe or cartilage without requiring them to undergo ear piercings that may cause pain or piercing infection.

What causes the piercing infection on the ears?

 

A young lady undergoing the ear piercing first time in her life is likely to encounter a problem of infection as a carelessness on her part can cause bacterial onslaught causing thereby piercing infection on her ears. Every woman is required to take-up the ear piercing seriously and go for the aftercare in order to annihilate all the chances of infections to be caused over her earlobe or cartilages of ear. There are some common conditions causing the infection on ear piercing, such as swimming in the pool, taking shower in the bathroom and touching the piercing site or earring thereof with unwashed hands.

 

Large number of young girls often touch theirs ear piercings that allow bacteria to cause an onslaught over the pierced site and develop piercing infection on the ears.

• Do not touch your pierced earlobes superfluously. Even if the situation warrants you to touch your ear piercings you should do so with your well washed hands only.
• Besides, do not wear the earrings tightly as blocked blood may cause a pain and thereby pave the way for piercing infection as well on your ears.
• Although professional piercers press into service the sterilized piercing needle and take proper care prior to ear piercing, sometimes a poor sterilization becomes the cause of piercing infection on the ear. So you should ensure that piercing tools and needle be well sterilized and the piercer put on the gloves before embarking upon ear piercing.
• Another cause of piercing infection on ear is the lack of sharpness of piercing needle that causes injuries over the earlobes by tearing adjacent sites with a jerk. Make sure that piercing needle be sharpened piercing through the earlobe or ear cartilage without causing stretching effects over the surrounding regions of a site marked for piercing.
• A great aftercare is required on a part of the individuals also as it has been noticed that infection often turns into tetanus causing death as well. Tetanus is rare condition, for the piercing needle as well as ornament to be worn happen to be skin friendly causing no any contrary effect on the health of pierced individual. But negligence on a part of the individual itself allows microbial infection to emerge on the ears that causes piercing infection on the ears.  

The ear piercing infection can be identified easily with: swelling, discharge, inflammation and tenderness over the earlobes or cartilage of pierced ear. If you pass through an ear pain noticing pus spewing from the piercing site of your ear, take the symptoms as vivid sign of earlobe or cartilage piercing infection. Do not ignore the problem as can affect even the healthy parts of your ear. Take prompt remedial action to prevent critical condition of your earlobe from exacerbating further.

Symptoms of piercing infections on the ears:

Ear piercing infection is needed to be looked into immediately after noticing the symptoms. As no any treatment is possible unless symptoms of piercing infection of ears are clear, we are sharing over here the symptoms that will serve as the whistle-blower alerting you to take prompt remedial action. An ear affected from piercing infection can be identified with a few specific symptoms which we are revealing over here.

• Yellowish discharge spewing from the ear piercing.
• Inflammation, tenderness, pain, and tingling sensation.
• Reddish protuberances or swellings over the piercing site of ear such as earlobe or back cartilage of the tongue.

How to treat the piercing infection on ear?

• Apply the ice over the earlobe.
• Wash your earlobes with warm saline salt two to three times a day.
• Have the acetaminophen drugs if the pain is intolerable and seems to enhance further.
• Apply Epsom salt over the pierced sites of your ear.
• Rotate the ear rings gently everyday with your well washed hands as it will prevent ear piercing infection and keep the earlobes and cartilages healthy.

Tips for Anyone with Newly Pierced Ears:

1. The first step in caring for newly pierced ears is making sure you get your ears pierced at the appropriate time. For most children and adults, this would be around the weekend or days off from school or work. Getting your ears pierced can be uncomfortable for the first few days and you do not want to become frustrated and remove the piercing.
2. In newly pierced ears, the earrings will need to be rotated. Most experts recommend that you do not rotate for the first few days as this can increase infection risks. Let your ears adjust to the new earrings for the first two days, and then rotate the earrings twice a day for six weeks.
3. The professional who pierces your ears should provide you with a solution to clean your ears. You will need to use it twice a day for six weeks. If you run out of cleaning solution, do not fret; hydrogen peroxide, will have the same effects. (Note: Never use hydrogen peroxide on an infected ear piercing.) You need to use a cotton swab and clean both sides of the ear thoroughly.
4. While showering, make sure that no shampoo or conditioner gets on your ears. These substances can get trapped in the new hole. If they are not rinsed out completely, they can lead to infection. Wear a shower cap, if you must.
5. Make sure that you lie down on your back with your head up while sleeping. You do not want to lie on your sides and place pressure on your ears for the first week or so. When you do lie on your sides, do not be alarmed if the posts feel like they are poking you. This feeling should pass quickly as you get used to the new earrings.
6. Leave the starter or stud earrings in for at least six weeks. This will allow your ears to heal and form a permanent hole. Make sure that any new earrings you use are hypo-allergenic or a real metal like gold or silver. This will reduce the chances of an allergic reaction to the metal in the earrings.
7. Never go without earrings for at least six months, especially at night. It can be very easy to forget to put earrings back in, and your ears can still grow back together quickly. It will be very frustrating if you go through the pain and hassle of getting pierced ears just to have to start all over.
8. You should stay away from dangling or heavy earrings for the first few months. Start with smaller earrings and work your way up to heavier and bigger varieties. Starting out too big can cause your ears to tear or become very sore. It can lead to infection as well, if the ear begins to tear.

Tips for Newly Pierced Ears in Children

• Search for an ear piercing facility that specializes in young children. They should have sterilized equipment. It is also best to get both ears pierced at the same time, instead of opting to do one first and then the other at a later time. Your child may be hesitant to go back to have the other ear done.

• If your child is an infant getting pierced ears, be sure to place socks over her hands for at least three to six weeks, so she cannot touch the area with her hands. It could be very easy for an infant to accidentally pull out an earring.
• Be sure to purchase earrings that are specially made for infants and young children. The backings will not poke your child, making wearing them more comfortable.
• A parent will probably want to help with the cleaning and turning process. Many children will be nervous about turning the earrings. Likewise children may not fully clean the area. Supervision for the first few times, at least, is recommended.

Getting your ears pierced for the first time is exciting. There are many reasons why people want to have pierced ears. They accessorize with outfits very nicely. They are also a way to show off your personality and style. Just be sure to take care of your newly pierced ears to avoid any complications.

How to Live With Your Type 2 Diabetes!

There is no argument about the fact that diabetes is a serious health condition. Currently there is no medically proven cure for diabetes. The disease can't be cured, but thankfully it can be successfully managed with the appropriate changes in lifestyle. If the disease is left untreated it invites many diabetic complications like heart stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, amputation, blindness and erectile dysfunction. If diabetes is diagnosed at an early stage the risk of diabetic complications can be reduced by the efficient management of the disease.

Diabetics can enjoy a healthy life by following these steps:

• Eat Well

Diabetics should enjoy healthy foods that are low in sugar, saturated fats and salts. It is recommended that they should consume a diet that is high in fiber. Examples of such foods are cereals, whole grain bread, vegetables and fruits. Diabetics should keep a close eye on the portion size of the food. You should try not to eat more than they consume, with the goal being to control weight gain. The vegetarian lifestyle is better overall for your health, as the vegetables are rich in fiber and they put a check on the weight gain.

• Be Active

You should try to bring maximum physical activity to your life. Aim for at least for 30 minutes of exercise daily.

• Stop Smoking

It is better to quit smoking. If it is difficult, one should consult a physician that can assist him.

• Monitor Blood Sugar Level

The blood sugar levels should be regularly monitored. You can prevent the diabetic complications by keeping the blood sugar level in control.

• Weight Control

Keep a track of the waist size and the weight. If you are overweight it can make a reasonable difference in his blood sugar levels by losing some weight.

• Annual Tests

Go regularly for the annual tests recommended for diabetics.

• Foot Examination

Examine the feet well. Use well fitted socks and comfortable shoes. Be aware of any cut or injuries on feet.

• Eye Examination

Have an eye examination annually by an optician.

•  Home blood monitoring

To take charge of your condition you will need to monitor how well your new regimen of diet, medications and exercise are working from day to day. Blood testing with a home blood glucose monitor is an essential part of your life.

• Become a fat burning machine

Diet is the cornerstone of your diabetes control. Without a healthy eating plan, your medications, if they have been prescribed, will not work properly and you will not have the energy to build muscle through exercising regularly or continue to lose weight.

• Keep moving to help you lose weight

Almost every study shows that following a regular exercise program is helpful for people with type 2 diabetes. It also attacks the visceral fat around your abdominal area and helps reduce your blood lipid levels. Also dieting without exercise, especially in mature people, causes a loss of muscle mass. Your exercise program does not need to be ambitious, but it does require commitment.

• A new approach

Lifestyle change is a critical step for control of your type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle changes has been proven, over and over, to be one of the best ways to reducing both your weight and blood sugar levels. An improved lifestyle will help you control your genetic roadblock and risks you were born with.
It can also be the most difficult part... even small changes will help, and will lead to larger ones. Trying to do too much at one time will defeat your whole effort.

• And finally, Keep Positive Attitude

Keep a positive attitude towards life.

Are medications always necessary?

Is it possible for you to keep your type 2 diabetes under control and avoid any more weight gain? Yes... but you will need to stay focused. The state of your type 2 diabetes is really in your hands.
Discuss all your health issues with your health care provider... he may suggest there are benefits for you to take a specific anti-diabetic medication in the initial period, plus you may need treatment for high blood pressure. Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition that requires constant vigilance and commitment to manage it properly.

 Changing your lifestyle with the help of the above mentioned steps can help you to keep diabetes in control. It will also enable you to live a happy and healthier life and enjoy all the benefits.

Happy Monday! :)

Protect Your Hair During Summer!!

Summer is, for most people, the time to hit the beach, the pool and bask in the sun. However, the salty water, the chlorine and the sun itself can prove to be harsh on your hair. The following are a few tips to keep your hair healthy during the summer:

• Choose products that are labeled as “replenishment” or “moisturizing” as these are designed to put moisture back into dry hair.
• You can use jojoba oil to soften your ends and prevent frizzies
• If you normally use hot hair tools such as blow dryers, straightening irons, electric curlets, etc., consider giving your hair a break and letting them air dry naturally. You can braid your hair while it is still wet and it will air dry into beautiful waves, perfect for summer! But if you really can’t help but blow dry everyday, use a leave-in conditioner that protects from frizzies and heat at the same time.

• For sun exposed or sun damaged hair, you might want to try performing regular deep hair conditioning treatments
• For extra treatment, you can also apply a deep conditioner to damp hair and wrap it in plastic wrap or a shower cap just before bedtime. Allow the deep conditioner to soak into damaged hair sections overnight for extra repair and re-moisturizing benefits.
• We know the importance of sunscreen for our bodies, but let us not forget about our hair AND scalp! Literally protect your tresses from the sun.
• A very chic hat or a colorful umbrella can also protect your head from the direct heat of the sun.

• Stylish accessories are attractive and a must-have for summer, but make sure you choose accessories that will not damage or tear your hair leading to split ends. Try ponytail holders without metal closures, barrettes with smooth edges, etc.
• For the summer months, consider being gentler to your hair and switch to hair care products that are as all-natural as possible. Keep in mind that chemicals such as alcohol and formaldehyde tend to aggravate dryness. Whenever possible, try to finish with a cool rinse to seal the hair cuticles and impart a natural shimmer and shine.
• Finally, let us not neglect the fact that the food you eat generally affects your hair's well-being. A good summer diet must include vitamin B5 which is found in eggs, fresh vegetables and mushrooms. Experts recommend a healthy mix of folic acid, silica and biotin to promote healthy hair growth. Water is also our body’s best friend. In the summer months we lose lots of fluids via continual sweating so to replenish our water reserves, we must drink plenty of fluids.

Have a beautiful weekend! :)

Get tone Arms With This Yoga Poses!

Who doesn't want strong, sculpted, shapely arms? I'll tell you that all the strength training exercises in the world never got you better results than doing yoga regularly. Since many of the poses require you to hold your own body weight in unique positions, you end up working your muscles more effectively. Give this sequence a try and you will be able to get the toned arms and upper back you crave.

1-Three-Legged Dog

Downward Facing Dog pose may look relaxing, but it's a killer move for toning your arms and upper back. Stick one leg in the air for Three-Legged Dog and it's even more challenging.

2-Sage

This is the full expression of Sage pose, but if your hamstrings aren't very flexible, doing Sage Tree will work your arms and upper back just as much. Keep both feet on the ground for the beginner version of this pose.

3-Crow

A pose that requires equal amounts of balance and strength, you'll feel Crow working your forearms and upper arms, as well as your core.

4-Wheel

Wheel pose will increase flexibility in your spine, but it'll also sculpt the muscles in your upper back and triceps.

5-Bound Headstand

Headstand has always been a pose that grounds and relaxes person, but if you hold it much longer than the five recommended breaths, you'll start to feel your shoulders and upper back burn. Try to hold it for two minutes, and the next day,you will sore but it totally worth it. If you have a difficult time balancing, do this pose in front of a wall.

6-Intense East

Though Intense East looks easy, this pose really challenges your triceps and upper back, and for an added bonus, you'll also tone your tush and the backs of your legs.

Resource: Fitsugar

The Oral Health Benefits of Chewing Sugar-free Gum!!

People around the world chew gum for many reasons. The results of scientific research demonstrate chewing gum’s positive contributions from the area of oral health and teeth specifically. Chewing gum stimulates one of the most powerful defense mechanisms from the body saliva. The partnership between chewing gum and saliva stimulation creates a powerful force that contributes to good dental health from the following areas.

Oral Benefits

• Alleviates dry mouth discomfort
• Freshens breath
• Neutralizes acids formed from the mouth by bacteria
• Remineralizes enamel to strengthen teeth
• Cleans the mouth of food debris
• Whitens teeth by reducing stains and preventing stains from accumulating
• Reduces plaque
• Helps reduce cavities
• Reduces gingivitis to maintain healthy gums
• Kills the germs that cause bad breath

Future Benefits "Healthy Mouth = Healthy Body"

New research suggests that inflammation from the body could be a factor associated using disease like heart disease and diabetes. This inflammation may be related to the bacteria you find from the mouth. Research is on the horizon to explore the role chewing gum might play from reducing inflammation causing bacteria from the mouth and its contribution to overall health of the body.

Chewing Gum Action

Saliva is the most important component of oral health. Water comprises 99% of saliva and the remaining components are macromolecules, formed within the acinar cells and secreted into the mouth. Saliva alone is a powerful protector of the oral cavity. And, chewing gum is an efficient and pleasant way to increase saliva without drugs. Increasing saliva from the mouth is accomplished by the gustivatory action of gum and the mechanical action of chewing. Together these forces stimulate the salivary glands to increase the flow rate by about 10 times the resting state during the first few minutes of chewing and keep it significantly elevated for as long as you chew. Stimulated saliva is capable of maintaining a healthy mouth, correcting a potentially harmful environment using its high concentration of buffers, minerals and antibacterial components.

The chewing of gum is said to be the world’s most common habit, with about 100,000 tons of it being consumed every year. Most of us are familiar with the negative aspects of chewing gum, when we find it on chairs, stuck under desks or contaminating pavements and therefore our shoes. However, there are also many benefits to chewing gum.

Studies have shown that chewing gum can have an indirect, positive effect on dental hygiene, teeth health. Chewing gum after meals helps to stimulate the production of saliva and overall salivary flow. Saliva helps to wash away and neutralize the acid produced by bacteria in plaque. This acid is responsible for dental decay and bad breath. Chewing gum can also help relieve pressure in your ears and sinuses by encouraging jaw movement.

The popular perception is that chewing gum is bad for the teeth. However, many dentists (one source says 90%!) believe that chewing sugarless gum after meals actually has health benefits!

The benefits arise from the fact that tooth decay occurs when essential minerals are dissolved from the tooth enamel by acids produced by the bacteria in plaque. Teeth are at their most vulnerable directly after meals and snacks, when plaque acid levels can rise dramatically.

However, chewing gum removes these acids within minutes, thus slowing down the process of tooth decay.

As I mentioned above, One reason for this is that chewing can stimulate saliva production by up to ten-fold, thus flushing out oral bacteria. Furthermore, saliva contains hydrogen carbonate ions, a mild alkali, which serves to neutralize plaque acids. For this reason, hydrogen carbonate is used in some toothpastes.

Saliva also contains minerals such as calcium, phosphate and fluoride .all components of tooth enamel – which can be assimilated and thus help to repair early decay and also strengthen tooth enamel.

On the other hand, chewing gum typically contains a sweetener of some type. Chewing gum that contains sugar, for example, can be harmful to your teeth. Sugar fuels the acid-producing bacteria in your mouth. Brands of gum containing sugar can be harmful to your teeth if these types of gum are chewed too often or are removed from the mouth too soon.

In fact, studies have shown that if a person chews gum containing sugar, it should be chewed for at least 15 to 20 minutes. After this time, the sugar is gone, but the saliva is sufficiently stimulated to rinse away some of the sugar residue.

There are, however, a number of sweeteners that help prevent cavities and reduce the acid production in your mouth. Xylitol, a natural sweetener found in many fruits and vegetables, tastes and looks like sugar but without the negative side effects. Chewing gum that contains high levels of xylitol fights cavities and dental decay by creating an unwelcome environment for bacteria. Xylitol is one of bacteria’s natural enemies-in a xylitol-rich environment, bacteria lose their ability to stick to teeth and are therefore unable to colonize and turn into plaque.

Clinical studies have shown reductions in tooth decay by up to 80% in people who consistently use products sweetened with 100% Xylitol.

Gum chewing is an individual choice. If you chew gum, I strongly recommend a sugarless gum. It is a good idea to brush your teeth, or at least rinse your mouth with water after chewing gum. If you are susceptible to decay, gum containing Xylitol may have some benefit for you. If you experience muscle fatigue, jaw joint pain, or headaches from chewing gum, perhaps infrequent chewing or excluding gum altogether may be the best solution.

Resources

1. This article was previously published for Dentistry magazine from the UK.
2. Dental Health Magazine

No More Broken Nails, How To Protect Your Nails ?

Summer is not the time to be hiding your nails in the sand or behind a beach ball because they're a little unsightly.It's the time we are bringing out the flip flops and sandals, it's the time to prepare our nails for the showing. So what better way to start the summer off but going and getting a manicure and pedicure. But at first, we need to take care of our nails!

1-Avoiding Summer Nail Problems

• Yellowing: Heat can bake polish right into your nails, leaving behind a sallow tint. To prevent this, try prepping nails with two layers of a base coat and choose light polish colors. This summer, beiges and light pinks are very popular.
• Weakness: Chlorine and even air-conditioning can make nail surfaces brittle.
• Ragged cuticles: Pool or ocean water can dry out your skin, so before getting in, dab on a moisture-rich balm. Keep cuticles from drying out. Apply a moisturizer each time you wash your hands, and don't use nail polish remover more than once a week; it's too drying. Wear cotton-lined rubber gloves when using household cleaning products. If cuticles look ragged, gently rub away dead skin with a soft washcloth. Never push cuticles too harshly and fight the urge to bite your cuticles.

 

2- Protect Your Nails:

If you're proud of your long, strong fingernails, then you know that it's important to protect them from damage. There's more to taking care of your nails than a regular manicure so follow these tips for help.

1. Use the right tool for the job-don't use your nails to remove staples, or to open soda cans, bottles or other containers.
2. Protect your nails from water damage by wearing a clear nail hardener if gloves are won't work in a given situation (such as for swimming or other water sports).
3. Cut your nails straight across instead of into the corners.
4. Use an emery board instead of a metal nail file. Using a metal file can cause your nails to split.
5. Use nail polish remover that does not contain acetone, a chemical that weakens nails.
6. Keep your cuticles healthy with a cuticle moisturizing cream.

3- Tips & Warnings

• If your nails do get broken or torn, clip the nail, then file to smooth any rough edges.
• Manicure your nails no more than once a week, either at home or at a nail salon. More frequent manicuring can weaken your nails.
• Applying a nail hardener to soft or weak nails is a good way to help keep them strong even if you don't need to protect them from water damage. You can apply nail hardener as a top coat over polish, or directly to unpolished nails.
• Have at least one glass of milk or a calcium tablet daily. Calcium is great for growing strong nails.
•  Rub your nail before bed with flax seed oil, vitamin E, almond oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil. This will make your nails grow longer and strengthen your nails.

Enjoy your Summer! :)

How To Wear High Heels With No Pain?!

I used to wear high heels almost every single day. Then I got tired of dealing with the pain of wearing heels so I've learned a few tricks along the way that make it more comfortable to wear high heels even when you have to do a lot of walking. If you buy the right shoes and wear them correctly, you should be able to wear high heels regularly without causing yourself a lot of pain and blistering.

Here are some tips for wearing high heels with more comfort:

• Make sure that you get high heels that fit. The number one reason that people feel pain or get blisters or abrasions from their high heels is that they have shoes that aren't the right size. Measure your feet. Make sure your shoes aren't too big or too small. If they aren't the right size, it doesn't matter how cute they are.
• Wear thin socks or stockings with your high heels. Bare feet are more likely to get damaged walking around in high heels than are feet that have a thin layer of fabric to protect them.
• Choose high heels that aren't too high. There are heels and then there are HIGH heels. Skip the ones that are too tall for you and you'll avoid a lot of the pain that comes from wearing these shoes. The test that you're supposed to follow is: Stand up in the high heels with your legs straight. Then go up on your tip toes as high as you can. There should be about an inch of space between the heel and the floor. If there's not then the heels are too high and you're going to hurt. You can get high heels that have a platform under the toe to keep the height but reduce the amount of pain you experience.
• Choose heels that aren't too narrow. Yes, stilettos are sexy, but they are also the most painful heels to wear. Consider choosing high heels that are a little bit thicker and provide more support for your feet.
• Break them in at home. You shouldn't buy a new pair of high heels and then wear them out for a night of dancing or a day at the office. You should buy them and spend a few hours with them on around the house. This will help to break them in but will let you take them off within a reasonable period of time. Your feet will thank you.
• Stand up straight and walk in a straight line. The worse your posture and walking habits are, the worse pain you're going to experience when wearing high heels. This is especially true over time since this can cause unusual wear on the shoes.
• Wear foot pads or insoles inside of the high heels. There are even some that are specifically designed to be used with high heels to reduce blistering and pain.
• Spend some money. Not all cheap shoes are going to hurt and not all expensive shoes are going to be comfortable but it's true that more often than not you're going to find that expensive high heels are made of a higher quality and will provide you with more comfort.
• Buy lots of shoes! You are more likely to get blisters and experience pain from high heels if you wear the same pair every single day. Change out your shoes often. Go between heels, flats and sneakers. Choose heels of varying sizes.
• Take care of your feet. When you aren't wearing shoes, you should be taking good care of your feet. Foot soaks, foot massages and general foot care will help to keep your feet healthy and less prone to pain when wearing high heels.
• Most importantly, do not go from not wearing any high heels to wearing 4 inch heels and thinking you will be able to walk. The pain they will cause to your feet will be so great you may never wear them again. So start small with wide 2 inch heels.
• It has been recommended to buy your shoes in the afternoon when your feet are swollen so you can get the right size and minimize pain.
• Do not think that you will ever be able to wear high heels for strenuous activities such as running or staying on your feet all day painlessly. This is not happening, instead avoid them in such situations and only wear them for special occasions where the amount spent on your feet is limited.
• And finally, as for walking, walk as you would in flat shoes. First the heel then the toes follow, avoid putting the toe down first or bring the whole foot down as one. This can cause damage to the foot and resultantly pain.

With these tips on how to wear high heels you should be well on your way to wearing your heels and not worrying about the pain associated with the killer shoes.
So, don't worry...you still have a chance to enjoy the femininity and elegance that come with these famed shoes while minimizing the pain.
Have fun!

Benefits and Risks of Drinking Baking Soda in Water!

Is drinking baking soda in water a remedy for common health problems or does it pose some risk? Learn the potential benefits and possible risks of ingesting baking soda in a glass of water.

The Effect of Baking Soda in the Body

Baking soda, or bicarbonate of soda, is a well-known external remedy. It can be used for problems ranging from acne to insect bites. It helps to balance pH levels and has a cleansing, softening effect on the skin. What about drinking baking soda in water? What are the health benefits of ingesting bicarbonate of soda and what are the health risks?

1. Antacid: When ingested, baking soda helps to balance body pH. In cases where the body is too acidic, it has an alkalizing effect. For this reason it may be taken as an antacid, relieving heartburn, acid indigestion and an upset stomach due to heartburn and indigestion, to use baking soda for heartburn relief use:1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
   4 ounces of water
   
   Dissolve the baking soda completely and then drink every two hours. Do not have more then seven one-half teaspoon servings within any twenty-four hour period. To use properly be sure all the baking soda is dissolved in water and do not consume on a full stomach. Do not take if you are taking other antacids or prescription drugs or if you have high blood pressure.
2. Gout:  Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when there is an accumulation of uric acid in the blood, tissue and urine. As drinking dissolved baking soda can balance your body's pH level, some doctors may recommend bicarbonate of soda to help address the uric acid build-up. As with using it for heartburn, to use as a remedy for gout, the baking soda must be completely dissolved. You should talk to your doctor about proper doses, as there are side effects of drinking baking soda in water regularly.
3. Urinary Tract Infections: Baking soda's alkalizing effect may also benefit urinary tract infection sufferers. Drinking a full glass of water with one teaspoonful of baking soda, completely dissolved, may prevent further symptoms and help the body overcome the infection by making the urine less acidic. Drinking plenty of water and cranberry juice can help as well.

Risks

• Baking soda may be ingested for heartburn, gout or even urinary tract infections. Mixing a small amount of this white powder for relief is a relatively simple and very inexpensive way to help improve your body's pH so that these health conditions are not as severe. Baking soda is not a cure for any disease, nor is it a substitute for regular medical care. Be sure to talk to your doctor first to see if ingesting baking soda is right for you and how much is safe.
• Baking soda is high in sodium and is not safe in high doses nor should it be used over a long period of time. It is also not safe for people who have certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease or edema. Pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid it unless directed by their doctor. If not dissolved properly or if taken on a full stomach it can cause an upset stomach.
• Possible side effects of drinking baking soda in water include stomach cramps and increased thirst. If you notice more serious side effects such as nausea, weakness, slow breathing, mental changes or swelling of the feet, contact your doctor.

More Uses

Everyone knows that baking soda is aces at keeping fridges smelling fresh, but who knew just how many other things it could do around the house?
Kitchen, Fire Protection

• Baking soda's a natural fire-stopper. Keep a box close at hand when you're working with live fire of any kind. A handful can put out grease, electrical, wood, and fuel fires.
• Run a baking soda and water solution through your coffee maker, followed by two fresh-water brew cycles to keep your java tasting tip-top.
• It's also great on the grate. Sprinkle it on the grill, or make a paste with water, and scrub grit off the grill without the danger of adding nasty cleaning chemicals to your food.
• Zap nasty cutting board tastes and smells but scrubbing them with a mixture of baking soda and salt. It'll cut grease, won't dry out the wood, and will also take garlic and onion smells off your skin.
• Use a damp paper towel and a sprinkling of soda to remove tea and punch stains from china and plastic.
• A pinch of baking soda in a gallon of freshly-brewed iced tea takes out bad-tasting tannins and prevents cloudiness.
• When you're soaking dried beans or cooking cabbage, add a dash to the water to make them more digestible.
• To keep tomato soup from curdling, sprinkle some soda on the boiling tomatoes and skim off the white foam before adding milk or cream.
• Two tablespoons added to boiling corn and cauliflower keeps the veggies crisp.

Oral Health

• Don't give oral health the brush-off. Soak retainers, mouthguards and dentures in a baking soda and warm water solution (2 tsp to a drinking glass full) and keep your choppers feeling clean.

Go for a natural glow!

• Make a paste of 3 parts baking soda to one part water for an effective and inexpensive skin exfoliant. Just apply it to your skin with fingertips or a washcloth in a gentle, circular motion and rinse. It also works well
• Mix a little soda into your shampoo to strip out product build-up, or rub it into your conditioner for extra-healthy, non-split-prone tips.

First Aid

• Apply a paste of baking soda and water to take the ouch out of bug bites, bee stings, sunburns, rashes, poison ivy, or pour in bathwater for relief from the itch of chicken pox and measles.
• Drink 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda in 1/2 a glass of water to relieve acid indigestion and heartburn, or use it as a mouthwash to soothe canker sore pain.

Garage

• Neutralize spilled battery acid in a flash with a handful of baking soda.
• Baking soda on a wet wash cloth makes an excellent bumper buffer when little scuffs appear. It also shines up bike chrome.
• Use a soft brush and a baking soda and water paste to clean efficiency-killing grease and grime from your car's battery.

Clothing

• No one likes reeking of smoke, sweat or spit-up. Rub baking soda directly on baby spit-up to nix the smell quickly. Soak sweat-drenched headbands, hats and gloves or smoky clothes in a baking soda solution before they hit the washing machine. Or, if you're pressed for time, sprinkle it on clothing for a quick odor mask, and wash when you get a chance.
• Shoes can smell a bit iffy after you've been wearing them all day. Once you've kicked them off, stick a small cloth pouch of baking soda in the toe overnight to tame any icky odors.

Garden

• Keep fungus, black spot and powdery mildew off your precious plants by mixing baking soda, horticultural oil and soap and applying it to affected leaves. It's also effective on rose leaves. Just add 1 tsp of soda and a few drops of dishwashing soap to a gallon of water, and spray once a week, and after it rains.

Have a beautiful day! ^_^

The Myth Of: ''Bananas Cause Weight Gain''

Bananas are loaded with potassium, which is an essential mineral that is sometimes missed if you are on a diet because it is vital for controlling the body’s fluid balance and regulating heartbeat as well as blood pressure. In addition, the ease of which bananas can be packed, transported, and eaten makes them a great choice if you are on a diet. While bananas are relatively low in calories and fat, they don't necessarily have a whole lot of fiber. Fiber is an essential nutrient if you are on a diet, because it helps to keep you feeling fuller, longer and prevents overeating at future meals. In short, bananas make a good choice if you are on a diet because they are low in calories and fat.Banana is an ideal fruit. They are cheap. There is a good supply all year. They can be digested by almost everyone. Nutritionally, bananas have a lot to offer. They have a higher carbohydrate content than most other fruits (by weight), making them a good snack choice for endurance athletes.

Does banana contain fat?
Well...Yes, banana does contains fat, but only 0.6 grams of fat. 

Health benefits
As mentioned, bananas contain high amounts of potassium up to 422 mg which is good for Blood Pressure, it is also a good source of Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Manganese and Folate along with being rich in fiber.

• Instant source of energy

Bananas consist mainly of sugars namely glucose, fructose and sucrose and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy.

• Anemia

Bananas are high in iron and can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and hence are recommended to those with anemia.

• PMS

Bananas contain vitamin B6 which helps regulate blood glucose levels and help with dealing with PMS symptoms. They are definitely a better solution than other PMS drugs.

• Blood Pressure

Banana contains very little sodium and is high in potassium hence it is ideal for someone with high blood pressure. Even FDA of US has accepted banana’s ability to reduce the risk of stroke and Blood Pressure.

• Bowel movement

Bananas contain good amount of fiber that helps the bowel movement and relieves constipation. Even in the case of diarrhea, the potassium in bananas helps replace the electrolytes lost due to it.
Bananas are also known to promote healthy bones, help in treating heartburn and reduce the risk of stroke and Age related muscular degeneration (ARMD) that causes vision loss in old age.

Myth that bananas cause weight gain
A medium banana contains about 100 calories. It contains about 22-25 gm of carbohydrates, almost 0 gms of fat and 2 gm protein and 3 gm of fiber.

Besides this, it also delivers 15% of the daily requirement of Vitamin C, a dose of Vitamin A, Vitamin B and Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium.

Banana may be high in calories but it contains fiber, potassium, vitamin C that is certainly better than pure calories and no nutrition that other foods you eat leave you with. Besides, if you are working out than banana is a perfect post workout food, that refills your energy reserves and helps build that muscle…

Banana is the best ‘fast food’ as it regulates the blood sugar level and gives instant energy. Banana is also cheaper and found all over the year.

Last Word

In the competition of the best fruit, there are no clear winners or losers. All fruits have their unique properties that make them good for specific ailments.

So,dont be afraid of enjoying your bananas...have a nice day! :)

Foods & Drinks That Can Damage Your Teeth And How to Minimize The Damage?!

There are so many foods that can attack your tooth enamel and reduce the strength of your teeth, that's why the intake of the below-mentioned foodstuffs should be minimized or avoided to maintain tooth enamel strength. These are some of the foodstuffs and dietary practices which raise a small or large red flag for teeth.

Refined and processed food such as

• sugar/ white flour
• cooked starches

1. Sugar :  Of course is hidden in numerous unexpected foodstuffs such as baked beans, salad dressings, deli meats, cream substitutes, bottled juices, ketchup etc. Foods with less than 1% sugar content however, are considered non-cariogenic. It also matters when the sugary food is eaten. This was determined over a number of years in unethical human experiments performed on patients of VipeholmMental Hospital in Lund, Sweden (1940s to 1950s). These non-voluntary human guinea pigs were given four meals a day containing a total of 350g of carbohydrates (of which 90g were sugar), but no snacks. Later, a control group additionally received sticky sugary snacks to eat between meals over the course of the day. The results were clear: only those who snacked on sweets in-between meals developed significant new tooth decay (in contrast to the very slow progression observed on the no-snacks diet), proving that carbohydrates ingested as part of the main meal do not cause caries (at least not in any significant manner)
2. Cooked starches:  Interestingly, a study done at New York University arrived at the conclusion that chocolate is better for teeth than products made of cooked starch (such as potatoes). The researchers determined how long carbohydrates will stay in the mouth after ingestion and how much acid is produced from them. They found that cooked starches are broken down into glucose over a longer period of time than for instance sweets. In other words, the subsequent fermentation into lactic acid by oral bacteria will go on longer as well. This means that foods containing cooked starches is thought to stimulate acid production in the mouth more vigorously than very sugary foods and are thus a greater threat in terms of tooth decay. Considering however that people in developing countries found to have no or little tooth decay (until sugar is introduced to them) traditionally eat many starchy (but "whole") foods, it might appear that sugar is the major culprit after all - unless it is the fact that Western "industrialized" diets generally lack the proper mineral spectrum due to industrial farming methods while those who live on less impoverished (richer and properly balanced) soils might be better protected thanks to the rich mineral and trace element content of their food.

Acidic/acidulous food

• Vinegar and pickled foods
• Sour fruits (oranges and other citrus fruit)
• Unripe fruit
• Fruit juices

Concentrated natural sugars such as

• Dried fruit
• Honey
• Syrups made from fruit, grains etc.

The reason why the intake of refined and processed foodstuffs such as sugar and white flour as well as acidic foods such as vinegar and sour fruits should be minimized or avoided to maintain tooth enamel strength, in a nutshell lies in the following:

Three factors, one structural, one nutritional, one bacterial, seem to form the basis of tooth decay: structural weakness of teeth (due to insufficient mineralization = lack of minerals), lack of nutritional factors required for tooth health, and attack by acids leaching out calcium. Acids stem from acidic foodstuffs but particularly are a byproduct of bacterial decomposition of food rests notably from refined edibles (such as white flour, sugar) and highly concentrated natural sugars (as found in dried fruit etc.)

<sup>Hence the importance of cleaning and flushing out any and all food rests, and more particularly the prevention of plaque deposits (where germs colonize) (compare

Dental Care and Oral Hygiene
Important note: while it is true that sugar is a highly cariogenic (tooth-decay-causing) substance, it is equally true (and highly surprising) that there is (at least) one naturally occurring sugar that frequently has the opposite (anti-cariogenic/cariostatic) effect.</sup>

You think you know everything about proper brushing and flossing techniques? Do You Understand the basics and what you can do to promote oral health?
 Your smile depends on simple dental care habits, such as brushing and flossing. But are you using the right techniques? Follow these steps to protect your oral health.

Brushing for oral health

Oral health begins with clean teeth. Consider these brushing basics:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day. When you brush, don't rush. Take enough time to do a thorough job.
• Use the proper equipment. Use a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush that fits your mouth comfortably. Consider using an electric or battery-operated toothbrush, especially if you have arthritis or other problems that make it difficult to brush effectively.
• Practice good technique. Hold your toothbrush at a slight angle against your teeth and brush with short back-and-forth motions. Remember to brush the inside and chewing surfaces of your teeth, as well as your tongue. Avoid vigorous or harsh scrubbing, which can irritate your gums.
• Keep your equipment clean. Always rinse your toothbrush with water after brushing. Store your toothbrush in an upright position, if possible, and allow it to air dry until using it again. Don't routinely cover toothbrushes or store them in closed containers, which can encourage the growth of bacteria.
• Know when to replace your toothbrush. Invest in a new toothbrush or a replacement head for your electric or battery-operated toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles become frayed.

Flossing for oral health
You can't reach the tight spaces between your teeth or under your gumline with a toothbrush. That's why daily flossing is important. When you floss:

• Don't skimp. Break off about 18 inches (46 centimeters) of dental floss. Wind most of the floss around the middle finger on one hand, and the rest around the middle finger on the other hand, leaving about 1 inch (3 centimeters) to floss your first tooth.

• Take it one tooth at a time. Use your thumbs and forefingers to gently pull the floss from the gumline to the top of the tooth to scrape off plaque. Rub the floss against all sides of the tooth. Unwind to fresh floss as you progress to the next tooth.
• Keep it up. If you have trouble getting floss through your teeth, try the waxed variety. If it's hard to manipulate the floss, use a floss holder or an interdental cleaner, such as a dental pick or stick designed to clean between the teeth.

<sup>Extremely hard as well as icy foods
Depending on the breaking strength of your teeth, you may wish to be careful with hard items such as certain kernels and ice.

Raw food = healthy?
Interestingly (Assimilable calcium from greens), a scientific study conducted in Germany on the health of raw-foodists showed that this section of the population develops more cavities and dental erosion than "normal" people, an observation confirmed by raw-food leaders/authors who noted that the dental health status of those adhering to a raw food diet is indeed deplorable. The reasons are not to do with raw food being damaging but with unwise food choices of raw foodists who tend to overindulge in dried fruits, acid fruit, dehydrated food etc. while "underindulging" for instance in calcium-rich greens.

One-sided (imbalanced) “mono-diets” and extreme fasting
Teeth weakening (i.e. structural damage) can also be induced by eating for instance mostly whole-grain noodles for a while
or radical prolonged fasting (such as 14 days) without adequate amounts of water. (On the other hand, properly conducted, fasting can induce dental and gum improvements and heal cavities and toothache.) So it would seem advisable to aim for a varied diet and (digestive capacity permitting) to go heavy on raw organic foods and seaweed.

Suggestions how to minimize the damage from ingestion of the above food items
Apart from strict avoidance which demands a lot of discipline and may not be invariably wise (for instance apple cider vinegar apparently shows astounding health benefits when regularly consumed), here are several immediate ways to contain any damage to enamel:</sup>

1.  ^{Rinse your mouth well after eating acidic or sticky food.}
2. ^{Add xylitol to acidic fruit and drinks.}
3. ^{Drink acidic drinks through a straw.}
4. ^{When ingesting apple cider vinegar and water (and possibly honey) as a health drink, add baking soda to neutralize the acid (raise its pH to tooth-friendly levels).}
5. ^{Rinse with an alkalinizing baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) solution afterwards.}
6. ^{Rinse your mouth with (alkalinizing) sea salt.}
7. ^{Rinse your mouth with xylitol after (and before) meals or use pure xylitol chewing gums (expensive).}
8. ^{Eat and thoroughly chew something salty after a meal (if you eat dairy, cheese apparently is one of the most tooth-friendly items to eat).}
9. ^{Brush teeth after meals but not immediately after ingestion of acidulous items (otherwise you are likely to scrape off precious minerals such as calcium from your somewhat softened enamel).}
10. ^{Get yourself some "chewing sticks"}
11. ^{Natural toothbrush alternatives: chew on them after meals.}
12. ^{Rinse your mouth with (herb-based) disinfectants or with special mouthwashs containing enamel-repairing hydroxyapatite.}

^{General recommendations and advice re oral cleansing.
Follow a varied tooth-friendly, mineral-rich diet to the extent possible and go heavy on raw organic foods and seaweed while making sure your food agrees with you. To allow better/proper absorption, chew well, only eat when hungry and in a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. You also may wish to do internal cleanses such as liver, gallbladder and colon cleanses and if you feel drawn to it, work on your body's energy system to keep your juices "flowing". Keep your immune system in shape by avoiding stress(or learning to handle it constructively) and regularly clean your teeth using natural, non-toxic cleaning agents. Try to "compensate" any damage done to your teeth by regularly ingesting "super foods"/natural supplements rich in trace elements resp. tooth-friendly alkalinizing minerals.
Have a nice weekend!}